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Painter Apprentice Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Oshkosh Corporation

Painter - 1st Shift

Dodge Center, MN · On-site

$20 - $28.34/hr

The Painter is responsible for the application of paint and other coatings using electrostatic / air assist paint guns and other automotive type paint application devices on Company products ...

Oshkosh Corporation

Painter - 1st Shift

Dodge Center, MN · On-site

$20 - $28.34/hr

The Painter is responsible for the application of paint and other coatings using electrostatic / air assist paint guns and other automotive type paint application devices on Company products ...

Oshkosh Corporation

Painter - 1st Shift

Dodge Center, MN · On-site

$20 - $28.34/hr

The Painter is responsible for the application of paint and other coatings using electrostatic / air assist paint guns and other automotive type paint application devices on Company products ...

Oshkosh Corporation

Painter - 1st Shift

Dodge Center, MN · On-site

$20 - $28.34/hr

The Painter is responsible for the application of paint and other coatings using electrostatic / air assist paint guns and other automotive type paint application devices on Company products ...

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All JobsPainter Apprentice JobsPainter Apprentice Jobs in Rochester, MN

Painter Apprentice information

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$12

$18

$24

How much do painter apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for painter apprentice in Rochester, MN is $18.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $19.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a painter apprentice do?

The duties of a painter apprentice are to learn and perform painting techniques and other essential tasks under the supervision of an experienced painter. Typically, their responsibilities involve prep, such as masking, sanding, and laying drop sheets, and then applying paint under the direction of a supervisor. Other responsibilities include caulking, finishing, and touch-up work. After you gain experience and skills through training and instruction, you can become a journeyman. Qualifications to be a painter apprentice vary, but often include a high school diploma or GED. Some prior experience in painting or construction is useful.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a painter apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Painter Apprentice, you need basic knowledge of surface preparation, paint application techniques, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools like brushes, rollers, sprayers, sanders, and personal protective equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to follow instructions and work collaboratively are important soft skills. These competencies ensure high-quality results, workplace safety, and effective teamwork as you develop expertise in the trade.

What is a painter apprentice?

Painter Apprentices are individuals who are learning the trade of painting by working under the supervision of experienced painters. They assist with preparing surfaces, mixing paints, and applying coatings on various structures while gaining hands-on experience. Apprenticeships typically involve both on-the-job training and classroom instruction to teach safety, techniques, and industry standards. The goal is to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to become a professional painter. This entry-level position is often the first step towards a career in the painting and decorating industry.

What is the difference between Painter Apprentice vs Painter Helper?

AspectPainter ApprenticePainter Helper
Required CredentialsBasic high school diploma; on-the-job trainingMinimal; often no formal credentials needed
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, residential and commercial projectsAssist with prep work and cleanup, similar environments
Job RoleLearn painting techniques, assist skilled paintersSupport painters with prep, cleanup, and material handling

Painter apprentices are in training to become skilled painters, learning techniques and gaining experience. Painter helpers assist experienced painters with basic tasks, often without formal training. While both roles work in similar environments, apprentices focus on skill development, whereas helpers support daily operations. Understanding these differences helps clarify career progression in the painting industry.

Can you do a painter apprenticeship?

Yes, aspiring painters can pursue apprenticeships to gain hands-on experience and learn techniques under experienced painters. Apprenticeships typically require a minimum age, a high school diploma or equivalent, and may involve on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction. Completing an apprenticeship can lead to certification and better job opportunities in the painting industry.

What are the most common challenges painter apprentices face during their first year on the job?

During their first year, Painter Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering proper surface preparation techniques, learning to work efficiently with different types of paints and finishes, and adapting to physically demanding tasks like working on ladders or scaffolding. They may also need to quickly develop attention to detail to ensure clean lines and smooth finishes, as well as learn to follow safety protocols in various environments. Building effective communication with experienced painters and other team members is crucial for growth and a positive work experience.

How to become a painter apprentice?

To become a painter apprentice, you typically need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and demonstrate good physical fitness. You can apply directly to painting contractors or join apprenticeship programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, where learning skills like surface preparation and safety protocols is essential.
More about Painter Apprentice jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Painter jobs in Rochester, MN? The most popular types of Painter jobs in Rochester, MN are:
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What job categories do people searching Painter Apprentice jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Painter Apprentice jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Painter Apprentice jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Painter Apprentice job openings:
Painter Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Painter Apprentice job openings in Rochester, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,494 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Painter - 1st Shift

Oshkosh Corporation

Dodge Center, MN • On-site

$28.34/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Oshkosh Corporation rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

287th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

About McNeilus, an Oshkosh Company
McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing Inc. is committed to serving everyday heroes and is an industry leading designer and manufacturer of refuse truck bodies. McNeilus produces a complete line of high-performance rear load, front load, and automated side load refuse bodies to augment any refuse collection fleet. Our team members are critical in our mission of supporting waste warriors and keeping communities safe and clean.
JOB SUMMARY:
The Painter is responsible for the application of paint and other coatings using electrostatic / air assist paint guns and other automotive type paint application devices on Company products including military spec paint. This position has the knowledge and skills to perform in any and each area of the paint process.
Pay Range: $20 - $28.34
YOUR IMPACT:
These duties are not meant to be all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned.
  • Prime, paint, and touchup vehicles with power spray equipment and brushes. Flush tanks, hoses, and guns prior to color changeovers. Mix all types of paints for proper color, formula, conditions, viscosity, and consistency. Perform titrations and mix or adjust chemicals as needed.
  • Maintain a safe and clean work environment in compliance with safety procedures, rules, and proper 6S standards. Demonstrate best practices to follow all safe procedures in assembling and testing of all models/products in assigned job function.
  • Upkeep of work area and equipment which may include preventative maintenance tasks. Inspect product before, during, after paint process to ensure specifications are being met.
  • Sand, wash, and condition parts as necessary. Light bodywork may be required.
  • Inspection of completed parts for quality, validate components meet.
  • Team member has the knowledge and skills to perform in every area of the paint process.
  • Assist training new team members on processes and equipment functions.
  • Ability to start training to perform touch-up.
  • Participate in onboarding training and annual training related to being a hazardous waste handler as required by the EPA RCRA hazardous waste rules. This will include ability to understand what waste hazards are, storage time limits, satellite accumulation, marking, labeling, weekly inspections, aisle space, storage, manifest shipping, use and location of emergency equipment, response to spills and fires, evacuation routes, etc.
  • Disassemble, clean, repair, adjust and reassemble painting equipment, such as pumps, paint heaters, tanks, spray guns, etc. for proper operation (Repairs are only required in Dodge Center).
  • Apply decals, stencils, and rust-proofing as required (Dodge Center only).

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Six (6) months of industrial painting experience or completion of internal paint training program or an evaluated equivalent.
  • Must be able to read checklists, paint codes, Safety logs, JSA's, SWI's etc.

STANDOUT QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Automotive paint experience.
  • Willingness to train in multiple areas to obtain a Painter ll level Able to proficiently paint in single assigned area.
  • Able to proficiently paint in single assigned area.
  • Must be able to perform mill checks and readings and help with paint prep (Riceville only).
  • Able to perform fine line painting technique (Riceville only).

CORE COMPETENCIES:
  • Internal Contacts: Contact with peers and others involving explanation of information (these contacts may be within or outside department or division), and the gathering of factual information; may include the communication of sensitive or confidential information.
  • External Contacts: Limited external contact to: gather information, answer queries, or ask assistance.
  • Communication Skills: Read, write and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence and memos. Read and interpret safety rules, operating/maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Read, analyze and interpret business manuals, technical procedures and/or government regulations.
  • Decision-Making: Requires minimal decision-making responsibility.
  • Complexity, Judgment and Problem Solving: Work of a relatively routine nature. Requires the ability to understand the follow instructions.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • Physical Demands: Frequent: Standing, Walking/Running, Sitting, Reaching, Hearing, Talking, Visual, Typing; Occasional: Climbing, Driving, Bending/Kneeling, Hearing, Talking, Visual, Typing, Fine Dexterity, Manual Dexterity; Upper Extremity Repetitive Motion, Lifting/Carrying 25lbs., Pushing/Pulling 25llbs.
  • Non-Physical Demands: Occasional: Analysis/Reasoning, Communication/Interpretation, Math/Mental Computation, Reading, Sustained Mental Activity (i.e. auditing, problem solving, grant writing, composing reports), Writing.
  • Environmental Demands: Occasional: Work Alone, Frequent Task Changes, Tedious/Exacting Work, Dust, Temperature Extremes, Loud Noises.
  • Work Schedule: Routine shift hours. Infrequent overtime, weekend, or shift rotation.
  • Demands/Deadlines: Occasional stress due to deadlines or workload because of intermittent or cyclical work pressures, or occasional exposure to distressed individuals within the immediate work environment.

Oshkosh is committed to working with and offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability for any part of the recruitment process, please contact our talent acquisition team by email corporatetalentacquisition@oshkoshcorp.com.
Oshkosh Corporation is a merit-based Equal Opportunity Employer. Job opportunities are open for application to all qualified individuals and selection decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristic. To the extent that information is provided or collected regarding categories as provided by law it will in no way affect the decision regarding an employment application.
Oshkosh Corporation will not discharge or in any manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with Oshkosh Corporation's legal duty to furnish information.
Certain positions with Oshkosh Corporation require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been admitted as a refugee or granted asylum.

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